Middleton: Park St. to Pheasant Branch Conservancy (0.6 mi)

Local Madison-area boaters have found some in-town entertainment on this creek when rains bring it up. Interestingly, some maps refer to this stream as "Pheasant Branch", while other maps label it "Pheasant Branch _Creek_". Since this is a brief run, most often it will be done without a vehicle shuttle. In Middleton, just park on Park Street or in Parisi Park, carry upstream just a bit to catch the first drop into the culvert under Park Street, then boat until you pass under CTH.M/Century Avenue (the next road bridge/culvert). As soon as the action subsides after that, exit the creek to carry back up on the _Pheasant Branch Trail_ in the park. Be very aware that in the park (as well as for about a mile upstream), this creek is flanked by many trees and other woody growth. With a stream this small, any single branch (much less any fallen trees) can easily block shore-to-shore, preventing passage. Thus, it is a very good idea to scout the whole section before putting on (by walking down and back up the aforementioned trail), to be certain you are not surprised by any new deadfall or snags. Also, this is undeniably an urban run, which means water quality can be poor at times (especially likely when it happens to flash up after a long spell of not running). Having to roll or swim when water quality is poor could be particularly nasty, so make your best judgement regarding your skills (and the conditions when you are there) to decide whether you wish to take the plunge.